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- Destinations
- Europe
- Norway
- Bergen
Bergen
The historic city of Bergen was medieval Norway's capital, and
is today an international tourist centre and gateway to the Fjords.
It has a spectacular setting on a sheltered harbour of the North
Sea, situated among seven hills that form a delightful backdrop to
the brightly painted wooden houses along the waterfront, and is one
of Norway's most enjoyable cities.
Bergen's history is closely linked to the sea. It became a major
trading port of the medieval merchants of the Hanseatic League, who
dominated European trade during the Middle Ages. The hub of the
city's social life is around the Torget, the picturesque
harbour-side market plaza that is surrounded by an assortment of
cafes, restaurants and pubs, and home to the vibrant fish market.
Flanking one side of the harbour is a colourful row of old wooden
houses, part of the historic wharf area and the remaining influence
of the Hanseatics, from where narrow cobbled streets wind their way
up between the quaint houses of the picturesque old
neighbourhood.
The city centre is divided into two parts: the old Hanseatic
town along the wharf area and the modern centre stretching inland
from the harbour. It has a pleasant, slow pace and a cultured
atmosphere with numerous interesting museums, galleries, an
aquarium and surviving medieval buildings. A cable car and a
funicular carry visitors to the top of two of Bergen's hills, Mount
Ulriken and Mount Fløyen, to enjoy splendid views over the city and
coast. Mount Fløyen is covered in forest with a well-marked series
of walking trails. Boat trips to the fjords are very popular and
the excellent 'Norway in a Nutshell' package tour provides a
spectacular glimpse of Norway's scenery in a day, for those short
on time.
Information & Facts
Climate
Not only is Bergen the warmest city in Norway, thanks to the
influence of the Gulf Stream, but it is also probably the wettest.
In fact, so well known has the city become for its high rainfall
that at one stage an entrepreneur posted umbrella vending machines
in the streets. Bergen's annual average precipitation is 88 inches
(2250mm), and most of this falls as rain. Summers are pleasantly
mild to warm, and in winter temperatures generally remain above
freezing, although stiff breezes and high humidity may make it feel
colder. Snow falls on odd days, and is generally not more than 10
cm deep.
Getting Around
Bergen has an efficient bus and night bus network, though
service to the city's outskirts can be erratic. A free bus service
operates during the day from Monday to Saturday, looping around the
city centre. However, central Bergen is easy to negotiate on foot,
with plenty of attractions within walking distance. Tourist passes
are available but are not necessarily good value. Metered taxis are
plentiful and can be hailed, caught at one of the many taxi ranks
or ordered by phone, but are expensive. The city also has an
extensive ferry system, which tends to be less tourist-orientated
than the express catamaran service available, and visitors can
enjoy spectacular views of the fjords. Driving in Bergen can be
somewhat harrowing as Norway operates on a priority from the right
rule and traffic circles are usually confusing with little
indication of intent from drivers. Drivers must also pay a toll
every time they enter the city and so driving and parking becomes
expensive. Car rental agencies are available, although drivers
usually must be over 21 and have had their licence for a minimum of
one year.
Language
Norwegian is the official language, but English is widely
understood.
Money
The official currency is Norwegian Krone (NOK) divided into 100
ore. Larger establishments accept major credit cards and travellers
cheques. Use of credit cards is widespread, with
Eurocard/Mastercard, Visa, American Express and Diners Club the
most common. Visitors should be aware that credit cards are
generally not accepted as a means of payment in Norwegian
supermarkets and petrol stations. Foreign currency and travellers
cheques can be exchanged at banks and major post offices, as well
as many hotels and travel agents, although for poorer rates. ATMs
are available in all towns and cities.
Time
Local time is GMT +1 (GMT +2 between the last Sunday in March
and the Saturday before the last Sunday in October).